Guadalajara

Many of the things we regard as ‘typically Mexican’ – such as serenading mariachis, charreadas (rodeos) and tequila – originated in Guadalajara and the state of Jalisco. No better place then, for hosting the International Mariachi and Charrería Festival, now in its 11th year.

The festival takes place from 2-16 September and boasts a busy programme: Catholic masses accompanied by mariachis in Guadalajara cathedral, a desfile (parade) on 4 September featuring floats of mariachi groups and folk ballet artists, mariachi competitions, rodeos and art exhibitions. The full programme (in Spanish) is available on the festival website.